Netherlands (124)

The 50 | 50 stores in the Netherlands are a unique retail concept. Working in collaboration with the Salvation Army, it offers work opportunities for people looking to reintegrate into the job market. The store sells fashionable eco clothing as well as exclusive pieces that have been salvaged by the Salvation Army and repurposed by designers and fashion students. All profits go to the charity.

Why it matters

Charities are having to come up with creative ways to raise money. The Salvation Army has always collected clothes for people in need and has now found a new way to use this to make money. What assets does your brand have that can be used to improve your business and help others?

Honda has developed a car to be exclusively marketed to women. Not only does it come in pink, the interior has a number of other features that may appeal to women such as a windscreen that helps prevent wrinkles, and a special air-conditioning system that keeps your skin moisturised.

Why it matters

The car market has suffered and sales have stalled with the global economic crisis. In this context, should it look at long tail solutions and target specific audiences that might be willing to invest? Is this the end of mass production of cars and the emergence of limited car models for smaller groups?

Why it matters

Instead of knowing something about everything, it might be better to know everything about one thing. Some customers might consider you a trustworthy expert and may turn to you if they have such a specific craving. This restaurant trend has proven to be quite successful in a number of big cities around the world. Are there any other business categories that could benefit from limiting their offering in such a niche way?